Pickleball is a fun sport that many people enjoy. If you want to play, it helps to know the size of the court. A court’s size is important for playing the game correctly. In this article, we will explain the size of a pickleball court in a simple way.
Basic Pickleball Court Size
The official pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. This size is the same for singles and doubles games. The court is smaller than a tennis court, so it fits in smaller spaces.
Here is the size in simple numbers:
| Dimension | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Pickleball Court | 44 feet | 20 feet |
What Areas Make Up the Court?
The pickleball court has several parts. Each part has a different size. Knowing these helps players follow the rules and play well.
1. The Non-volley Zone
This area is also called the “kitchen.” It is 7 feet from the net on each side. Players cannot hit the ball in the air here. This rule keeps the game fair and safe.
2. The Service Courts
The court is divided into left and right service courts. Each service court is 15 feet long and 10 feet wide. When serving, the ball must land inside these areas.
3. The Baseline
The baseline is the back line of the court. It is 20 feet wide. Players stand behind this line when serving.
Pickleball Court Layout Summary
| Part | Size / Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Court | 20 ft wide x 44 ft long | Same for singles and doubles |
| Non-Volley Zone (“Kitchen”) | 7 ft from net on each side | Players cannot volley here |
| Service Courts | 10 ft wide x 15 ft long each | Left and right sides |
| Net Height | 36 inches at sidelines, 34 inches in center | Net sags slightly in the middle |
How Much Space is Needed for a Pickleball Court?
While the court itself is 20 by 44 feet, you need more space around it. This space allows players to move safely and avoid injuries.
Experts say to add at least 10 feet on all sides. This means the total area should be about 40 feet wide and 64 feet long.
Here is the recommended space size:
| Area | Width | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Playing Area | 20 feet | 44 feet |
| Clearance Space Around | 10 feet each side | 10 feet each side |
| Total Space Needed | 40 feet | 64 feet |
Net Height and Placement
The net divides the court in half. The net is 22 feet long, the same as the court’s width. It is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.
Having the right net height is very important. It helps keep the game fair and fun.
Temporary vs. Permanent Courts
People build pickleball courts in two ways. Some courts are temporary. Others are permanent.
Temporary Courts
Temporary courts can be made on existing surfaces. For example, driveways or tennis courts. You can mark lines with tape or chalk. Use a portable net for play.
This method is cheap and easy. It is good for beginners or for trying the game.
Permanent Courts
Permanent courts are built with concrete or asphalt. These last longer and need less repair. Building a permanent court costs more money.
You need to prepare the ground and paint the lines. Also, install a fixed net post.
Credit: www.versacourt.com
Pickleball Court Compared to Tennis Court
Many people wonder how pickleball courts differ from tennis courts. A tennis court is much larger.
A tennis court is 78 feet long and 36 feet wide for doubles. Pickleball courts are smaller. This makes pickleball easier to set up in small spaces.
| Sport | Court Length | Court Width |
|---|---|---|
| Pickleball | 44 feet | 20 feet |
| Tennis (Doubles) | 78 feet | 36 feet |
Credit: primetimepickleball.com
How to Build Your Own Pickleball Court
Building a court takes planning. You need to find a flat area first. It should be at least 40 by 64 feet.
Next, choose the surface. Asphalt or concrete works best. You can paint the court lines using special paint.
Finally, put up the net. Make sure it is the right height and length. Check all measurements carefully.
If you want a cheaper option, use a temporary setup. Mark lines with tape or chalk. Use a portable net. This way, you can play quickly without big costs.
Summary
Here are the main points about pickleball court size:
- The court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long.
- The non-volley zone is 7 feet from the net on each side.
- Service courts are 10 feet wide and 15 feet long.
- The net is 22 feet long and 36 inches high at the sides.
- Allow 10 feet of space around the court for safety.
- Temporary courts can be made on existing surfaces with tape and portable nets.
- Permanent courts need concrete or asphalt and painted lines.
Knowing the correct size helps you enjoy pickleball. It keeps the game fair and fun. Now you can find or build a court easily. Happy playing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Minimum Size For A Pickleball Court?
The minimum size for a pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. This includes the playing area and sidelines.
What Is The Cheapest Way To Make A Pickleball Court?
The cheapest way to make a pickleball court is using an existing paved surface. Mark lines with tape or chalk and set up a portable net. This DIY method avoids costly construction while providing a functional playing area quickly and affordably.
Is A Pickleball Court The Same Size As A Tennis Ball Court?
A pickleball court measures 20 by 44 feet, much smaller than a tennis court, which is 36 by 78 feet.
What Is The Official Pickleball Court?
The official pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. It includes a 7-foot non-volley zone on each side of the net. The net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the center. This layout ensures standard play and safety.